FAA Pulls Plug on Rocket Trash Rule: Space Junk Gets a Pass
Published Date: 1/15/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA has decided to stop moving forward with a rule that would have required rocket parts to be removed from space within 25 years after launch. This affects companies that launch rockets, giving the FAA more time to think about the best way to keep space clean and safe. No new costs or deadlines are happening right now, but stay tuned for future updates!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
FAA Review and Possible Future Rulemaking
The FAA will further consider the 40 comments it received (including 6 about remediation costs and 7 about FAA authority), will review its legal authority and industry cost inputs, and may propose future rulemaking on orbital debris mitigation. That means your company could face new requirements or costs later if the FAA issues a new rule following its review.
25‑Year Debris Rule Withdrawal
If you operate a commercial rocket launch company, the FAA has withdrawn the proposed rule that would have required upper stages and other launch-related components to be removed from orbit within 25 years after launch. The withdrawal is effective January 15, 2026, and means there are no new costs or deadlines from that proposed rule right now.
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